A fiery scene unfolded on Thika Superhighway near Juja Town after enraged residents and boda boda riders torched a 33-seater matatu belonging to Lopha Sacco, moments after it allegedly knocked down and killed a pedestrian.
According to eyewitnesses, the matatu — which was reportedly speeding towards Nairobi — lost control and struck a man near the “Sewage area” in Juja, killing him on the spot.
Angry locals quickly gathered at the scene, pulled the driver from the vehicle, and set it on fire, sparking chaos along the busy highway.
“The crowd was furious after seeing the victim’s body. They pulled the driver out and torched the matatu,” said one witness.
Within minutes, thick black smoke billowed into the sky, paralyzing traffic in both directions as motorists were forced to divert.
Police Rescue Driver, Launch Investigations
Police officers from Juja Sub-County rushed to the scene and managed to rescue the driver from the mob before he could be harmed. Firefighters were later called in to contain the blaze, but the vehicle was completely destroyed.
Authorities have since launched investigations into the crash, with preliminary findings pointing to possible speeding or mechanical failure. The burnt shell of the vehicle was later towed away as officers cleared the debris to restore normal traffic flow.
Rising Road Rage and Mob Justice
This latest incident mirrors a similar attack in September 2025, when a Super Metro bus was set ablaze along Thika Road under comparable circumstances.
Road safety advocates have strongly condemned the Juja arson, warning that such acts destroy crucial evidence and put more lives at risk.
“Setting vehicles on fire hinders investigations and endangers lives. Authorities must enforce traffic laws and ensure justice is pursued through proper legal channels,” said a transport safety expert.
They have urged the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) and traffic police to intensify road safety enforcement and public awareness campaigns to curb reckless driving and mob justice.
